Panicle Rice Mite (Steneotarsonemus spinki)

In 2011, APHIS reclassified panicle rice mite (Steneotarsonemus spinki, PRM) to a non-quarantine pest. APHIS’ decision to reclassify PRM is based on a reevaluation of the regulatory program, outreach activities conducted with the rice-producing states, and scientific literature indicating that PRM has not caused economic damage in temperate rice-growing regions similar to the United States.

Program documents and regulatory protocols are maintained on the APHIS web site for reference by the rice industry and research community.